---
title: Replacing an Emergency U.S. Passport
description: Learn how to replace an emergency passport issued abroad and what documents are required once you return to the United States.
---
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# Replacing an Emergency U.S. Passport
## Learn how to replace an emergency passport issued abroad and what documents are required once you return to the United States.
#### ๐ What Is an Emergency Passport?
An emergency passport is a temporary travel document issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. It allows you to:
- Return to the United States
- Travel immediately due to urgent circumstances
When your emergency passport is issued, you will also receive an official letter from the U.S. embassy or consulate.
**Important:**
Keep this letter. It is required for the replacement process.
---
#### ๐งพ Replacing Your Emergency Passport in the U.S.
Once you return to the United States, you must replace the emergency passport with a full-validity (10-year) passport.
You can only replace an Emergency passport if:
- You still have the original letter, and
- The emergency passport has not expired
If you meet these requirements then:
- The government filing fee is waived ($0.00) for emergency passport replacements โ **$0.00**
- You only pay the **Swift service fee** for your selected processing time
---
#### ๐ Required Documents (If Letter Is Available)
Send the following to Swift:
- Emergency passport
- Passport photo
- Signed **Form DS-5504**
- Swift Letter of Authorization
Processing time begins once the application is submitted to the Passport Agency.
---
#### โ ๏ธ If You Do Not Have the Letter
If the letter has been lost, or the emergency passport was issued more than one year ago:
- You must apply for a full-validity passport using the **new or first-time passport procedure (DS-11)**.
This includes:
- Visiting a Passport Acceptance Agent
- Submitting proof of citizenship
- Paying standard government fees
---
#### ๐ก Important Notes
- Emergency passports are temporary and typically valid for one year or less
- Replacement must be completed after returning to the U.S.
- Government approval is required for the full-validity passport
- Swift cannot waive government rules
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